Actún Kan

If your exploration of Tikal / El Mirador has stationed you in northern Guatemala with a little more adventurous energy to spare, consider making a stop at the Actún Kan caves just south of Flores. Also known as the “Cave of the Serpent” (don’t worry; it’s just a legend…), this series of subterranean tunnels isn’t nearly as popular as the cave system in Lanquin, which means your experience will be both more intimate and somewhat less adrenaline-inducing. Still, for the short jaunt it takes to get there, they’re absolutely worth checking out.

And just what can you expect to see? Well, first of all, vision will be an issue, since the artificial lighting in the cave is temperamental at best and will likely not be working during your visit. Bring a flashlight or headlamp, however, and you’ll have the opportunity to check out plenty of stalactites, stalagmites, and natural rock formations including “The Stone Rose,” “The God of Rain,” and “The Dreamer.” Actun Kan also houses plenty of lethargic bats during the daytime, but since they’ll be in repose at the top of the cave during your visit you likely won’t even know they’re there. Entrance sets visitors back somewhere around $2 USD, and a similar price tag will be attached to the 7-8 minute tuk-tuk ride from Flores. Needless to say, it’s a cool, inexpensive way to do some daytime exploring around Santa Elena. Enjoy.